Turntable Deck

Turntable Deck

Online Dj Tips – an Online Guide to Dj Techniques and Gear

Most of us will have had some really great nights out that were made perfect by the music selections of the DJ. You may even have looked up enviously at the DJ in his booth, expertly flipping records to the adulation of the entire dancefloor. If you have ever felt a desire to actually be that DJ, the good news is that you can - you’ll just need to learn a few things first. Fortunately, it’s quite easy to get started and, yes, it is a lot of fun too…

If you have your own record collection already, then there’s nothing stopping you from buying a couple of decks and a mixer and throwing a few tunes together. At the most basic level, that’s all there is to it – you just have to play the right music and make sure it fits together nicely.

There are a few important things to watch out for, however – not all turntables are created equal, so it pays to do a bit of research before you splash out on some new DJ decks. Actually, a lot of decks out there aren’t designed for DJing at all – most low-end consumer models are belt drive units and don’t have enough power for even the simplest of scratches. What you really need are a good set of direct drive decks, which have much higher torque ratings and are much more powerful than consumer belt drive turntables.

You’ll need this extra power later on when you start to learn to scratch, and it’s good even for basic beat matching tasks as it helps to ensure that your records maintain sync. If you want some extra info about what to look for in your turntables, have a look at this DJ Decks page, which provides a few examples of good decks and explains vital features such as pitch control. A good pitch control function is vital for beat matching, and if you decide to become a DJ then you’ll be using it a lot.

If you don’t have any records already, and don’t really want to go out hunting for all your favourite tracks on vinyl, then don’t despair – you can still be a DJ without a trunk full of old LPs. Many modern DJs use special CD decks, where you can put in a standard CD and then manipulate it using a special round pad interface on the top. This is a digital simulation of how vinyl DJs operate, and you can basically do all of the same stuff in pretty much the same way – it’s just a lot more portable.

Another way you can go is to just use your mp3 collection – you’ve probably seen DJs in pubs and clubs with their laptop open. You can get special DJ software (such as Native Instruments Traktor DJ) that will simulate all the features of a traditional DJ rig, so all you have to do is hook your computer’s audio outputs into the PA system and off you go. For more info on various techniques of DJing, have a look at the Online DJ tips site.

About the Author

DJ Foley is a DJ and Music Producer with over ten years' experience in the music industry. If you're looking for some DJ advice, the online DJ site features plenty of tips and tricks, as well as some recommendations for particular DJ decks that are suitable for new DJs, across a range of budgets.

Stanton STR8.150 DJ Turntable High-Torque Deck $529.9 The Stanton STR8.150 DJ turntable is the ideal partner for creating that perfect DJ set up. The Stanton turntable features a tough metal chassis and skip-proof tone arm with Cardan suspension. Additionally the set-up offers a powerful, high-torque 4.5kg/cm drive. At the tip of the adjustable, straight tone arm is a Stanton 680HP pick up, ideal for scratch-heavy sets. The coaxial audio output and switchable Phono/Line output allows the Stanton STR8.150 to be connected to all kinds of modern DJing devices. For added creativity the turntable features a 50% pitchable range for smooth transitions between tracks. The motor shut off, reverse mode and adjustable start/brake times offer a little extra for your sets.

Stanton T.52B Turntable 889406768215 $111.75 The Stanton T.52B is a rugged and reliable belt-drive turntable perfect for everyday use and ideal for novice to mid-level DJs. Stanton builds the T.52B turntable so that it is simple to use but packed with great pro features. You get a manual pitch control fader and 2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setup. The Stanton T.52B turntable also has a straight tone armfor DJs who want to scratchand includes the versatile Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted into the headshell. The T52.B turntable also has a professional quality slipmat for better control, and a convenient cloth dust cover to protect your deck when it's not in action.Easy-to-operate belt-drive turntable with professional featuresSturdy design with comfortable and practical layoutStraight tone arm improves tracking for scratchingIncludes quality Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted on headshell2 playback speeds (33 or 45 RPM)2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setupRCA stereo outputsManual pitch control fader (+/- 10% Adjustment)Accessories include RCA cables, slipmat, and cloth dust cover

Stanton T.52B Turntable $135.59 The Stanton T.52B is a rugged and reliable belt-drive turntable perfect for everyday use and ideal for novice to mid-level DJs. Stanton builds the T.52B turntable so that it is simple to use but packed with great pro features. You get a manual pitch control fader and 2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setup. The Stanton T.52B turntable also has a straight tone armfor DJs who want to scratchand includes the versatile Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted into the headshell. The T52.B turntable also has a professional quality slipmat for better control, and a convenient cloth dust cover to protect your deck when it's not in action.Easy-to-operate belt-drive turntable with professional featuresSturdy design with comfortable and practical layoutStraight tone arm improves tracking for scratchingIncludes quality Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted on headshell2 playback speeds (33 or 45 RPM)2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setupRCA stereo outputsManual pitch control fader (+/- 10% Adjustment)Accessories include RCA cables, slipmat, and cloth dust cover

Used Stanton T.52B Turntable $135.59 The Stanton T.52B is a rugged and reliable belt-drive turntable perfect for everyday use and ideal for novice to mid-level DJs. Stanton builds the T.52B turntable so that it is simple to use but packed with great pro features. You get a manual pitch control fader and 2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setup. The Stanton T.52B turntable also has a straight tone armfor DJs who want to scratchand includes the versatile Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted into the headshell. The T52.B turntable also has a professional quality slipmat for better control, and a convenient cloth dust cover to protect your deck when it's not in action.Easy-to-operate belt-drive turntable with professional featuresSturdy design with comfortable and practical layoutStraight tone arm improves tracking for scratchingIncludes quality Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted on headshell2 playback speeds (33 or 45 RPM)2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setupRCA stereo outputsManual pitch control fader (+/- 10% Adjustment)Accessories include RCA cables, slipmat, and cloth dust cover

Gemini TT-2000 DJ Turntable High-Torque Direct Drive Deck $164.9 The Gemini TT2000 is a great quality DJ turntable with high-torque direct drive and fully adjustable tone arm. This classic drive-tone arm combo offers the key to creating professional sets with flawless transitions. The dual start/stop button makes the Gemini TT2000 ideal for both club use and DJ battles. With its +/- 10% pitchable range and reverse function the Gemini turntable will make a huge impression on your set. The turntable comes shipped with a high-quality pick up and target light.

Used Stanton T.52B Turntable 889406768215 $111.75 The Stanton T.52B is a rugged and reliable belt-drive turntable perfect for everyday use and ideal for novice to mid-level DJs. Stanton builds the T.52B turntable so that it is simple to use but packed with great pro features. You get a manual pitch control fader and 2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setup. The Stanton T.52B turntable also has a straight tone armfor DJs who want to scratchand includes the versatile Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted into the headshell. The T52.B turntable also has a professional quality slipmat for better control, and a convenient cloth dust cover to protect your deck when it's not in action.Easy-to-operate belt-drive turntable with professional featuresSturdy design with comfortable and practical layoutStraight tone arm improves tracking for scratchingIncludes quality Stanton 500.v3 cartridge pre-mounted on headshell2 playback speeds (33 or 45 RPM)2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setupRCA stereo outputsManual pitch control fader (+/- 10% Adjustment)Accessories include RCA cables, slipmat, and cloth dust cover

Akai ATT002 DJ Turntable - Single Deck with USB MP3 $99.9 The Akai ATT002 is a great value turntable with a USB output for digitizing your record collection to MP3s - allowing you to easily transfer them to a computer in perfect quality!The device connects conveniently to your PC or Mac via plug and play, with the need to worry about complicated connections to your computer. The included software also allows you to edit and enhance your files easily once you record them. DJ's are sure to enjoy the fully adjustable tone arm and the quiet running belt drive along with the classic turntable functions of this device!

Stanton STR8-150 Digital Turntable $545.09 The durably constructed Stanton STR8-50 Digital Turntable has an industry-leading 4.5 Kgf-cm torque motor, an ultra-stable platter, and skip-proof, straight tone arm, and minimizes feedback. Performance features include key correction, reverse, up to 50% pitch adjustment, quartz lock accuracy, and S/PDIF digital output. Controls include start/brake speed adjustment, selectable phono/line output, dual start/stop buttons, and a height-adjustable tone arm. The DJ deck also includes Stanton 680HP cartridge, slipmat, and L-shaped cablesDurable construction designed to minimize feedback4.5 Kgf-cm torque motorSkip-proof, straight tone armUltra-stable platter and tone armStart/Brake speed adjustmentDigital output (S/PDIF)Key correctionSelectable phono or line outputDual start/stop buttonsHeight-adjustable tone armReverse function3 speedsQuartz lockSelectable pitch control (±8%, ±25%, ±50%)Motor off featureRemovable target lightAdjustable feetIncludes slipmat and L-shaped cablesIncludes Stanton 680HP cartridge mounted on headshell

Stanton Str8-150 Digital Turntable $599 The durably constructed Stanton STR8-50 Digital Turntable has an industry-leading 4.5 Kgf-cm torque motor, an ultra-stable platter, and skip-proof, straight tone arm, and minimizes feedback. Performance features include key correction, reverse, up to 50% pitch adjustment, quartz lock accuracy, and S/PDIF digital output. Controls include start/brake speed adjustment, selectable phono/line output, dual start/stop buttons, and a height-adjustable tone arm. The DJ deck also includes Stanton 680HP cartridge, slipmat, and L-shaped cablesDurable construction designed to minimize feedback4.5 Kgf-cm torque motorSkip-proof, straight tone armUltra-stable platter and tone armStart/Brake speed adjustmentDigital output (S/PDIF)Key correctionSelectable phono or line outputDual start/stop buttonsHeight-adjustable tone armReverse function3 speedsQuartz lockSelectable pitch control (8%, 25%, 50%)Motor off featureRemovable target lightAdjustable feetIncludes slipmat and L-shaped cablesIncludes Stanton 680HP cartridge mounted on headshell

Turntable Bot $10 Turntable Bot

Turntable Matinee $10.49 Turntable Matinee

Turntable Technology $9.49 Turntable Technology

Stanton T.55 USB Turntable Black $199 The affordable Stanton T.55 belt-drive turntable is also equipped with USB and RCA outputs that make it a great all-around vinyl spinner. This makes it easy to use the Stanton T.55 turntable to transfer the music on your vinyl records to your PC or Mac and create music files for use with CDs or MP3 players such as your iPod. To make things even simpler, Stanton includes Cakewalk Pyro Audio Creator LE software for transferring and editing the music files, so you can remove any pops and clicks that are common when playing vinyl. Stanton also includes a 500.v3 cartridge with the T.55 USB for ideal sound quality and perfect compatibility. Not just a tool for vinyl transfer, the Stanton T.55 deck is also a perfect fit for novice- or intermediate-level DJs.Easy-to-operate belt-drive turntable with professional featuresUSB output for easily transferring music from vinyl records to your Mac or PCIncludes software for transferring and editing music filesIncludes audiophile-quality Stanton 500.v3 cartridgeStraight tone arm improves tracking for scratching2 playback speeds (33rpm or 45rpm)2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setupRCA stereo outputsManual pitch control fader (+/- 10% adjustment)Accessories include RCA cables, slip mat, and dust coverIncludes Cakewalk Pyro Audio Creator LE music and sound editing software

Stanton T.55 Usb Turntable Black $199 The affordable Stanton T.55 belt-drive turntable is also equipped with USB and RCA outputs that make it a great all-around vinyl spinner. This makes it easy to use the Stanton T.55 turntable to transfer the music on your vinyl records to your PC or Mac and create music files for use with CDs or MP3 players such as your iPod. To make things even simpler, Stanton includes Cakewalk Pyro Audio Creator LE software for transferring and editing the music files, so you can remove any pops and clicks that are common when playing vinyl. Stanton also includes a 500.v3 cartridge with the T.55 USB for ideal sound quality and perfect compatibility. Not just a tool for vinyl transfer, the Stanton T.55 deck is also a perfect fit for novice- or intermediate-level DJs.Easy-to-operate belt-drive turntable with professional featuresUSB output for easily transferring music from vinyl records to your Mac or PCIncludes software for transferring and editing music filesIncludes audiophile-quality Stanton 500.v3 cartridgeStraight tone arm improves tracking for scratching2 playback speeds (33rpm or 45rpm)2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setupRCA stereo outputsManual pitch control fader (+/- 10% adjustment)Accessories include RCA cables, slip mat, and dust coverIncludes Cakewalk Pyro Audio Creator LE music and sound editing software

Crosley Turntable CR42PA Lancaster Paprika $191.3 # Belt Driven Turntable Mechanism. # Plays 33 1/3 45 and 78 RPM Records. # Plays 7 10 12 Records. # Diamond Stylus Needle. # CD Player. # Programmable 20Track Memory. # LED Display. # Repeat Play. # Cassette Deck. # AM/FM Radio. # Airplane Tuning Dial. # Analog Tuner. # Dynamic Full Range Stereo Speakers. # Function Select. # Auxiliary Input. # Headphone Jack. # Portable Audio Ready Simply Plug in Your Portable Audio Device or MP3 Player. # Color: Cherry Oak Paprika. # Size: 17.5 w x 9.5 h x 12.75 d

Innovative Technology Aviator Turntable Wooden Music Center $249.99 Easily record from your classic vinyl and cassette to CD - No Computer Needed! Features a 3 Speed Turntable, AM/FM Radio, Cassette Tape Deck, Aux-In for MP3 Devices & Recordable CD Player. Equipped with powerful built in Stereo Speakers. Remote Control included.

Crosley CR7002A-OA Troubadour Turntable - Oak $209.95 Troubadour Turntable - Oak by Crosley CR7002A-OA. Ride the wave of the vinyl resurgence and preserve your records digitally with the Crosley Troubadour three-speed turntable. Simply pop your USB drive or SD memory stick in the front slot and press "record," - no wires or computer necessary! Your favorite songs will now be on one tiny device, offering the freedom to use your computer to convert the digital tunes to CDs or your MP3 player for more convenient listening. The Troubadour offers even more - the ability to play music from your USB or SD card, as well as CD's, cassettes and AM/FM radio. Plus, the Troubadour's retro design with real wood panels and a hand-rubbed finish will complement any room in the house. Let your hair hang down and enjoy the music!USB/SD Card ReaderBelt Driven Turntable MechanismPlays 3 Speeds - 33 1/3, 45 And 78 RPM RecordsPlays 7", 10" & 12" RecordsPortable Audio Ready-Simply Plug In Your Portable Audio Device Or MP3 PlayerDiamond Stylus NeedleCD PlayerProgrammable 20-Track MemoryRepeat PlayRandom PlaySide Mounted Cassette DeckAM/FM RadioAnalog TunerFunction SelectDynamic Full Range Stereo SpeakersSpecificationThis item includes:CR-CR7002A-OA Troubadour Turntable - Oak 17.75L x 13.63W x 9.38HPlease refer to the Specifications to determine what items are included since sometimes the image shows more or less items. If you are not sure, please contact us and our customer service will be glad to help.

Crosley CR7002A-PA Troubadour Turntable - Paprika $209.95 Troubadour Turntable - Paprika by Crosley CR7002A-PA. Ride the wave of the vinyl resurgence and preserve your records digitally with the Crosley Troubadour three-speed turntable. Simply pop your USB drive or SD memory stick in the front slot and press "record," - no wires or computer necessary! Your favorite songs will now be on one tiny device, offering the freedom to use your computer to convert the digital tunes to CDs or your MP3 player for more convenient listening. The Troubadour offers even more - the ability to play music from your USB or SD card, as well as CD's, cassettes and AM/FM radio. Plus, the Troubadour's retro design with real wood panels and a hand-rubbed finish will complement any room in the house. Let your hair hang down and enjoy the music!USB/SD Card ReaderBelt Driven Turntable MechanismPlays 3 Speeds - 33 1/3, 45 And 78 RPM RecordsPlays 7", 10" & 12" RecordsPortable Audio Ready-Simply Plug In Your Portable Audio Device Or MP3 PlayerDiamond Stylus NeedleCD PlayerProgrammable 20-Track MemoryRepeat PlayRandom PlaySide Mounted Cassette DeckAM/FM RadioAnalog TunerFunction SelectDynamic Full Range Stereo SpeakersSpecificationThis item includes:CR-CR7002A-PA Troubadour Turntable - Paprika 17.75L x 13.63W x 9.38HPlease refer to the Specifications to determine what items are included since sometimes the image shows more or less items. If you are not sure, please contact us and our customer service will be glad to help.

Crosley CR42-OA Lancaster Turntable - Oak $179.95 Lancaster Turntable - Oak by Crosley CR42-OA. Lancaster Pennsylvania is the oldest inland city in the U.S. and originally settled in 1718. It is well known for its architectural heritage featuring clean lines and simple designs. Just like a great architectural masterpiece, the Crosley Lancaster Entertainment Center features clean and sophisticated lines that are nicely detailed by open face grillwork and an authentic airplane-style dial. Lift the hinged lid to reveal a 3 speed record player that plays your 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM records. After listening to your old vinyls, sit back and relax to the AM/FM radio or the more modern CD player. The Lancaster's classic design and functionality make it a simple solution for any music lover.Belt Driven Turntable MechanismPlays 3 Speeds - 33 1/3, 45 And 78 RPM RecordsPlays 7", 10" & 12" RecordsDiamond Stylus NeedleCD PlayerProgrammable 20-Track MemoryLED DisplayPortable Audio Ready-Simply Plug In Your Portable Audio Device Or MP3 PlayerRepeat PlayCassette DeckAM/FM RadioAirplane Tuning DialAnalog TunerDynamic Full Range Stereo SpeakersFunction SelectAuxiliary InputHeadphone JackSpecificationThis item includes:CR-CR42-OA Lancaster Turntable - Oak 17.5L x 12.75W x 9.5HPlease refer to the Specifications to determine what items are included since sometimes the image shows more or less items. If you are not sure, please contact us and our customer service will be glad to help.

Crosley CR7002AOA Troubadour Turntable Oak $247.46 Ride the wave of the vinyl resurgence and preserve your records digitally with the Crosley Troubadour threespeed turntable. Simply pop your USB drive or SD memory stick in the front slot and press record no wires or computer necessary Your favorite songs will now be on one tiny device offering the freedom to use your computer to convert the digital tunes to CDs or your MP3 player for more convenient listening. The Troubadour offers even more the ability to play music from your USB or SD card as well as CD s cassettes and AM/FM radio. Plus the Troubadour s retro design with real wood panels and a handrubbed finish will complement any room in the house. Let your hair hang down and enjoy the music. Usb/sd card reader. Belt driven turntable mechanism. Plays 3 speeds 331/3 45 and 78 rpm records. Plays 7 10 and 12 records. Portable audio readysimply plug in your portable audio device or mp3 player. Diamond stylus needle. Cd player. Programmable 20track memory. Repeat play. Random play. Side mounted cassette deck. Am/fm radio. Analog tuner. Function select. Dynamic full range stereo speakers. Usb/sd encoding. Record cassettes to sd card or usb drive. Auxiliary input. Headphone jack. Remote control. External speaker outputs. Ac power adapter. Color: Oak.

Stanton STR8-150 Digital Turntable 886830283918 $299.5 The durably constructed Stanton STR8-50 Digital Turntable has an industry-leading 4.5 Kgf-cm torque motor, an ultra-stable platter, and skip-proof, straight tone arm, and minimizes feedback. Performance features include key correction, reverse, up to 50% pitch adjustment, quartz lock accuracy, and S/PDIF digital output. Controls include start/brake speed adjustment, selectable phono/line output, dual start/stop buttons, and a height-adjustable tone arm. The DJ deck also includes Stanton 680HP cartridge, slipmat, and L-shaped cablesDurable construction designed to minimize feedback4.5 Kgf-cm torque motorSkip-proof, straight tone armUltra-stable platter and tone armStart/Brake speed adjustmentDigital output (S/PDIF)Key correctionSelectable phono or line outputDual start/stop buttonsHeight-adjustable tone armReverse function3 speedsQuartz lockSelectable pitch control (±8%, ±25%, ±50%)Motor off featureRemovable target lightAdjustable feetIncludes slipmat and L-shaped cablesIncludes Stanton 680HP cartridge mounted on headshell

Stanton STR8-150 Digital Turntable 886830232657 $509.15 The durably constructed Stanton STR8-50 Digital Turntable has an industry-leading 4.5 Kgf-cm torque motor, an ultra-stable platter, and skip-proof, straight tone arm, and minimizes feedback. Performance features include key correction, reverse, up to 50% pitch adjustment, quartz lock accuracy, and S/PDIF digital output. Controls include start/brake speed adjustment, selectable phono/line output, dual start/stop buttons, and a height-adjustable tone arm. The DJ deck also includes Stanton 680HP cartridge, slipmat, and L-shaped cablesDurable construction designed to minimize feedback4.5 Kgf-cm torque motorSkip-proof, straight tone armUltra-stable platter and tone armStart/Brake speed adjustmentDigital output (S/PDIF)Key correctionSelectable phono or line outputDual start/stop buttonsHeight-adjustable tone armReverse function3 speedsQuartz lockSelectable pitch control (±8%, ±25%, ±50%)Motor off featureRemovable target lightAdjustable feetIncludes slipmat and L-shaped cablesIncludes Stanton 680HP cartridge mounted on headshell

Stanton STR8-150 Digital Turntable 886830181580 $299.5 The durably constructed Stanton STR8-50 Digital Turntable has an industry-leading 4.5 Kgf-cm torque motor, an ultra-stable platter, and skip-proof, straight tone arm, and minimizes feedback. Performance features include key correction, reverse, up to 50% pitch adjustment, quartz lock accuracy, and S/PDIF digital output. Controls include start/brake speed adjustment, selectable phono/line output, dual start/stop buttons, and a height-adjustable tone arm. The DJ deck also includes Stanton 680HP cartridge, slipmat, and L-shaped cablesDurable construction designed to minimize feedback4.5 Kgf-cm torque motorSkip-proof, straight tone armUltra-stable platter and tone armStart/Brake speed adjustmentDigital output (S/PDIF)Key correctionSelectable phono or line outputDual start/stop buttonsHeight-adjustable tone armReverse function3 speedsQuartz lockSelectable pitch control (±8%, ±25%, ±50%)Motor off featureRemovable target lightAdjustable feetIncludes slipmat and L-shaped cablesIncludes Stanton 680HP cartridge mounted on headshell

Used Stanton Str8-150 Digital Turntable $545.09 The durably constructed Stanton STR8-50 Digital Turntable has an industry-leading 4.5 Kgf-cm torque motor, an ultra-stable platter, and skip-proof, straight tone arm, and minimizes feedback. Performance features include key correction, reverse, up to 50% pitch adjustment, quartz lock accuracy, and S/PDIF digital output. Controls include start/brake speed adjustment, selectable phono/line output, dual start/stop buttons, and a height-adjustable tone arm. The DJ deck also includes Stanton 680HP cartridge, slipmat, and L-shaped cablesDurable construction designed to minimize feedback4.5 Kgf-cm torque motorSkip-proof, straight tone armUltra-stable platter and tone armStart/Brake speed adjustmentDigital output (S/PDIF)Key correctionSelectable phono or line outputDual start/stop buttonsHeight-adjustable tone armReverse function3 speedsQuartz lockSelectable pitch control (8%, 25%, 50%)Motor off featureRemovable target lightAdjustable feetIncludes slipmat and L-shaped cablesIncludes Stanton 680HP cartridge mounted on headshell

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